5 emerging tone-setters making their mark at Commanders 2025 OTAs

Daron Payne - Commanders DT

There is no Jonathan Allen in the locker room anymore. The veteran defensive tackle's long association with the Washington Commanders ended this offseason when the production no longer matched the salary. That leaves a gaping hole that must be filled on the field and from a leadership standpoint, behind the scenes.

Daron Payne is looking to fill it.

The former first-round pick, a longtime teammate of Allen's in Washington and Alabama, was an unassuming character who shied away from being a vocal leader previously. Payne did his work and went about his business away from the spotlight. Now, things have changed.

Payne is answering the challenge issued by defensive line coach Darryl Tapp. He's setting an example for others to follow, which centers on his strong work ethic and making sure the right standards are in place to compensate for Allen's departure. This is the biggest positive imaginable for a defensive front that has some big questions to answer in 2025.

The Pro Bowler drew praise from both Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. at OTAs. His focus, relentless desire, and overall approach were lauded by coaches. Considering how high the stakes are for Payne next season as the team's highest-paid star, this should alleviate any concerns among the fan base regarding his commitment.

Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB

This shouldn't be a huge shock to anybody who's watched Frankie Luvu's career closely over the last few years. The dynamic linebacker is a maximum-effort individual at all times. There are no half-measures, and everything is done meticulously with the inner fire that other players naturally gravitate towards.

Luvu signed for the Commanders last offseason after emerging as one of the league's most underrated linebackers with the Carolina Panthers. The former undrafted free agent out of Washington State took his game to ever greater heights under Dan Quinn, earning second-team All-Pro honors and forming a prolific partnership with legendary figure Bobby Wagner.

This wasn't enough for Luvu. He wants to keep this positive momentum going. He wants to continue his emergence as an inspirational leader. That's been evident throughout Washington's organized team activities according to those in attendance.

The explosiveness and ferocity during drills are as advertised. Luvu already looks in midseason form in pursuit of hitting the ground running next season. He's also lending every possible support to rookie Kain Medrano and second-year player Jordan Magee as they look to force their way into the team's plans.

Luvu became the beating heart of Washington's defensive renaissance last season. He's well on his way to becoming the same again.